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Howard backing for Fergie

Tim Howard has launched a staunch defence of Sir Alex Ferguson and feels Darren Fletcher is deserving of his place in the Manchester United team.

United's faltering start to the season saw pressure heaped on Ferguson's shoulders, but Howard feels the Scottish tactician's record stands up to the closest scrutiny.

"The manager does not have to answer to anyone," Howard, who has slipped behind Edward van der Sar in the pecking order at Old Trafford,&nbsp;told Sky Sports News.

"He has 20 successful years under his belt, which speaks for itself.

"He is a class act, always has been, and I don't expect anything to change."

Fletcher has also come in for criticism in recent weeks, but he went some way to answering his detractors with the winning goal against champions Chelsea at the weekend and United States international Howard has backed the Scot to show his qualities on a regular basis.

"Fletch is a good player, he has kept his place in the United side for quite a while now," added Howard. "Darren has all the ability in the world."